Student Behavior; *Teaching Methods

An evaluation was conducted of the service-learning-based Community Connection program at Baker Middle School in south Texas to determine whether the program is having an impact on student achievement, attendance, perception toward self, school, and community. Data were collected through a survey of a sample of 120 students from the target population of 8th grade students who participated in the Community Connection program during the 1999-2000 school year, along with a teacher survey and interviews with teachers and administrators, a literature review, site observations, and school records. The study found that the Community Connection program has had a significant positive impact on student achievement, student attendance, and student behavior. The surveys also indicate a positive perception among students and teachers participating in the program. The study concluded that implementation of a service-learning program requires professional staff development, school support, and careful planning in order to be successful. (KC) Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. The Effectiveness of a School Based Service-Learning Program "Community Connection&quot